In the Galleries - Ken Botnick: Typographies at the Craft Alliance

Ken Botnick: Typographies This collection of exquisite handmade books and expertly printed ephemera by master printmaker and Washington University professor Ken Botnick takes its cue from Roland Barthes, who wrote, "The object is the world's human signature." If there were such a thing as a non-materialist materialist, Botnick would be it: His "objects" are the products of intimate communion with great works of literature, far-flung travels and the metaphysical reverie that well-chosen words combined with deft, hand-wrought craft inspire. Botnick has taken essays by William H. Gass, poetry by Octavio Paz and Mary Jo Bang, a map of New York City and text from random signage from odd corners of India (among other sources) and transformed them into books of near sculptural intricacy, patiently and circumspectly translating the literal world into physical icons. Also showing:The Blank Page Handmade blank books of jewel-like beauty by area printmakers including Matt Kleinberg, Joanne Kluba, Elysia Mann, Jana Harper, Amy Thompson celebrate the form and the diversity of talent in our midst. Through March 24 at the Craft Alliance, 6640 Delmar Boulevard, University City; 314-725-1177 or www.craftalliance.org. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Thu., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun.